Program Spotlight: AP Giannini Afterschool Learning Program

As part of Program Spotlight on SNBC’s Afterschool Program at A.P. Giannini Middle School (APG), SNBC is featuring our extraordinarily awesome B-Boy/B-Girl instructor Jeff Wong. In his own words, Jeff tells us about his experience as part of the SNBC team.

What brought you to this program? How long have you been working for SNBC?

Jeff Wong: After graduating from the University of Hawaii and being a fresh face in the "working world" I tumbled around several jobs that only served me financially and never quite fit.  Through my continuing enthusiasm for dance, one of my mentors suggested that I check out one of his old programs and lo and behold SNBC came up.  The biggest thing that drew me to this program was the fact that it would allow me to communicate the principles and life-values that I hold in high-esteem through the teachings of my utmost passion (dance).  I have since been working at SNBC for 7 months.

What is the most meaningful part of your position? What do you enjoy the most about it?

JW: The most meaningful part of my position is being able to witness and accompany students through the same emotional and integral transformations (however big or small) that I went through during my own adolescence.  Seeing students both enjoy and discipline themselves moves me and serves as proof that there can be inspiration gained and utilized through all aspects of what we do as human beings.

What do you hope kids and their families gain by participating in this program?

JW: The biggest thing that I hope to have kids and their families understand is that you can truly accomplish anything that you set your mind to and that enjoying the process of achievement is absolutely do-able as well!

Why are the services provided by this program important?

JW: SNBC and the services that it offers are incredibly essential to any/all youth because they provide venues for a vast, sea of experiences that will expose, engage, and enrich the lives of students and their families.

 If you could have any super power, what would it be?

JW: If I had a super power, it would be to bring out the utmost honest and best qualities of those around me.  

Why do you love the Sunset?

JW: I love the Sunset because the environment, kids, experiences, and FOOD is incredible!

Program Spotlight: Francis Scott Key Afterschool Learning Program

Happy 2014! SNBC gives thanks for the wonderful staff of our Afterschool Learning Program at Francis Scott Key (F.S. Key) Elementary. Ms. Donna Chan has worked with youth at F.S. Key for five years and continues to teach and inspire hundreds of kids through SNBC’s afterschool and summer programs. Thank you for your years of service in the Sunset, Ms. Donna!

Ms. Donna poses with the happy kids of F.S. Key!

SNBC: Please tell us a little about yourself.

Ms. Donna: I’ve worked at F.S. Key for about five years. I love kids and how I can have an impact on their lives.

SNBC: What brought you to this program?

Ms. Donna: I love working with the youth and families because I can give them the support they need. Working with youth is the key to success because youth and families are very important to our community.

Ms. Donna with the FSK ASLP staff several years ago

SNBC: What do you enjoy most about your work within this program?

Ms. Donna: The best part of my position is getting to spend all my time with my kids and teaching them through different activities and projects. Getting to see all the students grow.

SNBC: Why do you think this program is important?

Ms. Donna: It’s important because I want all students to feel that they’re safe and have some place to go after school. Also so all students can learn as they grow.